Philippines Launches Strategic Framework for Cancer Control
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) unveiled the 2024-2028 National Integrated Cancer Control Program (NICCP) Strategic Framework, marking a pivotal step forward in the fight against cancer in the Philippines. The announcement came during the celebration of the 5th anniversary of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA), highlighting a continued commitment to enhancing cancer care across the nation.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus, WHO Representative to the Philippines, emphasized the crucial role of universal health coverage and robust primary health care in ensuring equitable access to affordable and high-quality cancer treatments. The WHO pledged ongoing support for the Philippines, aiming to build the cancer control program upon an effective health system foundation.
A report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) identified cancer as the second leading cause of mortality in the country in 2022, with lung, breast, and liver cancers being the most fatal. The NICCA, enacted in 2019, significantly advanced the cancer care landscape by enhancing access to specialized centers, establishing financial support mechanisms, and creating a multi-sectoral council for comprehensive policy-making, planning, and coordination in cancer prevention and control.
The establishment of the Cancer Assistance Fund and the Cancer and Supportive-Palliative Medicines Access Program were key milestones, providing financial aid for interventions and free medication access. Currently, 35 sites across the Philippines offer 61 types of medicines for treating common cancers, alongside the development of cancer specialty centers and primary care facilities dedicated to prevention, screening, and early detection.
The DOH has committed to bolstering prevention and early detection services to mitigate the cancer burden effectively. Health Secretary Teodora Herbosa expressed confidence in the collaborative effort with partner agencies, medical and oncology experts, and patient groups to overcome cancer control challenges, aligning with the goals of Universal Health Care. Herbosa also advocated for the adoption of healthy lifestyles and early consultation to prevent cancer.
The newly launched framework outlines the vision, mission, and intended impacts of the National Integrated Cancer Control Council (NICCC) over the next four years, emphasizing priority setting and capacity strengthening as key strategies for achieving cancer control objectives.